By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education held its weekly press briefing on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, spotlighting significant updates in governance and the extractive sectors. Among the highlights was the announcement that Sierra Leone will lead the African Diamonds Producers Association (ADPA) for a two-year term. This milestone was disclosed by Julius Mattai, Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, as part of Mining Week activities. The leadership role coincides with the 10th Ordinary Meeting of the ADPA Council of Ministers, hosted during Mining Week.
Mining Week, running from April 8 to April 12, 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Center, serves as a platform to showcase the country’s mining sector through exhibitions, panel discussions, and cultural performances.
Mining Revenues and Exports: Key Figures
Minister Mattai detailed the structure of Sierra Leone’s mining revenues. Non-tax revenues such as royalties and license fees, managed by the Ministry of Mines, amounted to approximately $50 million in 2024. Tax revenues from the sector, including corporate income tax and customs duties, ranged between $8–9 million.
In terms of mineral exports, 2023 saw a total export value of $1.6 billion, dropping to $1.2 billion in 2024 due to Sierra Rutile halting operations. Key contributors to 2024 export figures included:
Notably, FG Gold, a newly licensed large-scale gold mining company, is projected to generate over $300 million annually, marking a substantial increase from the current $1 million contributed by large-scale gold exports.
Minister Bah clarified that export values represent private investments rather than direct government income, with the government earning through associated taxes and royalties.
Challenges and Opportunities
Representing MEYA Mining and the Chamber of Mines, Ibrahim Sorie Kamara addressed challenges in global commodity markets, citing a drop in diamond prices and a rise in iron ore value. He pointed to U.S. tariffs as a factor affecting investor confidence. Kamara called on Sierra Leoneans to actively promote positive narratives about the country online to attract investment.
ADPA’s Commitment to Sustainable Development
Mrs. Ellah Muchemwa, Executive Director of ADPA, provided insights into the association’s mission to foster cooperation and sustainable development among diamond-producing nations. Established in Rwanda in 2006, ADPA aims to ensure that communities benefit from diamond mining activities. Muchemwa applauded Sierra Leone’s leadership in hosting the ADPA Council of Ministers’ meeting during Mining Week, emphasizing the importance of community-focused mining initiatives.
Mining Week’s activities reflect Sierra Leone’s dedication to revitalizing its extractive industries while fostering regional collaboration and sustainable growth.